Powerhouse Telemark

THE CHALLENGE

Construction of Powerhouse Telemark, which is expected to become the county’s new landmark building, began in September 2018. The aim was to make it one of the most energy efficient and environmentally friendly buildings in the world. Building owner R8 Property ASA also wanted it to serve as an inspiration for the international building industry. Another ambition was for the building to create pride among visitors and local residents, and to build expertise among its suppliers.

THE SOLUTION

The building consists of 8,403 square meters on 11 floors, where the tenants have access to modern offices, co-working spaces and attractive amenities such as a fitness room, a lobby, a shared staff restaurant, penthouse meeting spaces and an exclusive rooftop terrace overlooking the fjord. The building’s façade and roof are mostly covered by solar panels. Additionally, daylight is maximized where possible, including skylights to further reduce energy consumption. For those skylights, the smart glass solution SageGlass Climaplus Classic was installed. The electrochromic glass darkens or clears in response to the sun to allow for ample daylight to penetrate the building, while avoiding solar heat and glare. This helps to reduce cooling costs and to keep tenants comfortable at any time of day.

THE BENEFITS

Powerhouse Telemark is an eye-catcher. With its central location, the sustainable building is clearly visible from the main traffic roads and waterways. With the help of SageGlass, the Powerhouse Telemark achieved the first BREEAM-Nor-certification in Telemark. It has been awarded the category “Excellent,” the second highest level. SageGlass helps the building to keep net energy consumption low. By letting natural light flood in from above without harsh glare and heat, SageGlass guarantees pleasant room temperatures and prevents the building from heating up. The electrochromic glass therefore not only increases the comfort and wellbeing of tenants and visitors, but also contributes to the owner’s and architect’s aim to be a model for environmentally, socially and economically sustainable architecture.